How to Free Ourselves from Fossil Fuels

In 100 years, there will be no oil left. How many times have you heard that statement, or one very similar? We all want to free ourselves from the need for fossil fuels, such as oil, natural gas and coal. Some alternative methods of power generation are water, wind, and solar, biofuels (ethanol) are popular in the United States right now. There are other methods of power generation in use throughout the world.

Fossil fuel power is economical to produce, but the extraction of these fuels can be environmentally destructive. The location of these fossil fuels can also be problematic. In places where they exist it creates wealth and conflict. The western United States and the Middle East are two examples of these problems.

In the US, much of the extractable fossil fuels are located in the western part of the country. According to the Energy Information Association, Wyoming is the largest producer of coal. Texas produces the most natural gas. Alaska is the biggest producer of oil. The lack of population in these states allows urban users to overlook the impact on the environment. The economy is booming right now in the West. The unemployment rate, as listed by the US Department of Labor, in Wyoming was 2.6% in March. People are making a lot of money in the construction and service industries as well as the fossil fuel extraction industries.

Alternative energy is fashionable in the United States right now. Everyone wants to jump on the bandwagon. The alternatives fossil fuels show promise for future, non-extractive power sources.

Hydroelectric power is one of the oldest non-extractive power sources in the world. Water power generation structures supplies The Energy Information Association indicates that 6.5% of the electric power in the United States. Examples of hydroelectric power generator are water wheels, tidal and wave power extractors, and hydroelectric dams.

Wind power is a fast growing segment of the alternative power movement. Windmills are an old method of power in many parts of the world. Now large wind turbines dot the landscape and seascape.